Chief Justice Ariwoola Addresses Allegations of Bias in Election Judgements

In a response to accusations of biased judgment in cases related to the 2023 general elections, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Olukayode Ariwoola emphasized the importance of adhering to the law during the opening of the special session of the 2023/2024 legal year.

Ariwoola addressed concerns surrounding the nullification of elections by election tribunals and the Appeal Court, which resulted in the removal of public office holders elected in the previous general elections.

Notably, governors, senators, and House of Representatives members faced court orders following petitions from opposition parties.

Amidst claims that the judiciary was influenced by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Ariwoola urged judges to remain firm and cautioned against confusing sentiment with the law.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of 58 newly conferred Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), he remarked, “It is still necessary to have at the back of your mind that public opinions, sentiments or emotions can never take the place of the law in deciding the cases that come before you.”

The Chief Justice highlighted the need for judges to resist being swayed by public sentiment, stating, “The law remains the law, no matter whose interest is involved.”

He emphasized the importance of separating emotion from logic and assumption from fact in the pursuit of fair and just decisions.

In conclusion, Ariwoola underscored the responsibility of judges to uphold the integrity of the legal system, urging them not to succumb to external pressures but rather to focus on the objective interpretation and application of the law.